Removable bracket assembly for support structure accessory attachment

The present disclosure relates in general to the field of attachment assemblies, and more particularly to a novel bracket assembly for securely and removably attaching accessories to support structures such as posts and railings, as well as systems and methods of use.

Boat docks and residential decks are typically constructed using solid supports such as posts and railings. It is often desirable to attach accessories to these solid supports to improve the functionality of the structure. For example, a user may want to attach additional structures to support posts and railings to improve access to hard-to-reach areas of the dock or deck. In another example, a user may want to secure outdoor furniture to the support structures.

A user may attach an accessory to a support by altering the support. For example, a user may drill a hole in the support to attach an accessory, but this can be difficult to achieve without the right tools or skills. Additionally, drilling into the support can compromise its structural integrity, potentially weakening the support and raising concerns about the long-term stability of the dock or deck. Alternatively, in the case of a metal support, a user could weld an accessory to the support. Again, this method requires specialized tools and skill. Moreover, permits are often required to make such permanent alterations to boat docks and residential decks.

What is needed in the art is a bracket assembly for securely and removably attaching accessories to support posts and railings without altering the support, and related methods of manufacturing, installation, and use, that do not suffer from deficiencies found in conventional methods of accessory attachment.

Novel aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a bracket assembly comprising a body defining an open channel with a first edge and a second edge, wherein the channel is configured to engage a support structure. The bracket assembly can include a latch configured to removably couple the first edge of the body to the second edge of the body, wherein a change in orientation or position of the latch selectively reduces an effective interior cross-sectional area of the body to control a clamping force on the support structure. The bracket assembly can also include one or more attachment interfaces for removably coupling the bracket assembly to an accessory.

In another embodiment, novel aspects of the disclosed principles are directed to a method of removably and securely coupling an accessory to a support structure comprising securely coupling a bracket assembly to a support structure, wherein the bracket assembly comprises a body defining a generally c-shaped open channel with a first edge and a second edge, wherein the channel is configured to engage a support structure; a latch configured to removably couple the first edge of the body to the second edge of the body, wherein a change in orientation or position of the latch selectively reduces an effective interior cross-sectional area of the body to control a clamping force on the support structure; and

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described in the detailed description. It is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed invention, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claims.

Other aspects, embodiments, and features of the disclosed principles will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered together with the accompanying figures. In the figures, each identical or substantially similar component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a single numeral or notation. For the purposes of clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure. Nor is every component of each embodiment of the disclosed principles shown where illustration is not necessary to allow those of ordinary skill in the art to understand the principles disclosed herein.

Novel aspects of this disclosure recognize the need for a device for attaching accessories to boat docks, residential decks, and other structures without altering the structures. To this end, an improved bracket assembly is provided that can be securely and removably coupled to a support of a boat dock or deck or other structure and an accessory.

illustrate various perspectives of one embodiment of a bracket assemblydesigned and constructed in accordance with the disclosed principles. Referring to, illustrated is an isometric view of one embodiment of a bracket assembly. The bracket assemblymay include a bodythat defines a generally c-shaped open channel for engaging a support structure. The bodymay have an inner surface and outer surface, wherein the inner surface may contact a support structure. The bodymay comprise a first wallA and a second wallB spaced therefrom. A side wallC may join the first wallA to the second wallB. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the bodymay be shaped such that the bodymay engage a support structure with a rectangular cross section. In another embodiment, the bodymay be a semi-circular annular cylinder such that the bodymay engage a cylindrical support structure. It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the shape of the bodyis not limited to the above-mentioned configurations and may be shaped to engage a variety of differently shaped support structures. The bodymay also be sized to engage support structures of various sizes.

In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, each of the wallsA,B,C may be planar. The first wallA may be substantially parallel to the second wallB. The side wallC may be positioned substantially perpendicular to the first wallA and second wallB and may contact a joining edgeA of the first wallA and a joining edgeB of the second wallB to join the first wallA to the second wallB. The wallsA,B,C may each be substantially rectangular in shape. However, other shapes that can achieve the same utility are within the scope of the claims. The bodymay also be shaped to facilitate sliding of the bracket assemblyalong a support structure. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the side wallC may include planar flangesextending from the top and bottom edges of the side wallC. The flangesmay have a greater width than the side wallC such that the flangesextend beyond the first wallA and second wallB. The flangesmay also include one or more angled edges. However, it is understood that flangeswith other dimensions are within the scope of the present disclosure. The flangesmay also be angled away from the body. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the flangesare angled away from the bodyin the z-direction. A shape of the side wallC with flangesmay be better appreciated with reference toand. In an embodiment, one or more of the first wallA and second wallB may additionally or alternatively include one or more flangesextending from their respective top and bottom edges. In an embodiment, the wallsA,B,C and/or the flangesmay be integrally formed such that the bodymay be formed as a unitary component. Alternatively, the bodymay be formed by joining the distinct wallsA,B,C and flangesin accordance with the principles described herein.

The bodymay also include a plurality of apertures disposed through the first wallA and second wallB. The apertures may be positioned distal to the joining edgesA,B of the first wallA and second wallB. A first set of apertures may include a first apertureA and a second apertureB sized and shaped to receive a pinA, discussed in greater detail below. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, a first apertureA may be formed through the first wallA. A second apertureB may be formed through the second wallB and may be aligned with the first apertureA. In exemplary embodiments, when referring to a bracket assemblyas disclosed herein, the first apertureA and second apertureB may be referred to collectively as the first set of apertures. The first set of aperturesmay also be sized and shaped to receive a protrusiondisposed on the pinA, discussed in greater detail below. A second set of apertures may include a third apertureA and a fourth apertureB sized and shaped to receive a second pin (not shown) to maintain the assembly in the assembled, secure configuration, discussed in greater detail below. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, a third apertureA may be formed through the first wallA. A fourth apertureB may be formed through the second wallB. In exemplary embodiments, when referring to a bracket assemblyas disclosed herein, the third apertureA and fourth apertureB may be referred to collectively as the second set of apertures.

The bracket assemblymay also include a latchfor removably coupling the first wallA of the bodyto the second wallB of the body. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the latchmay include a cylindrical pinA sized and shaped to rotatably engage the first apertureA disposed through the first wallA and second apertureB disposed through the second wallB. The pinA may be inserted therein to couple the first wallA to the second wallB and place the bracket assemblyinto an assembled configuration, discussed in greater detail below. In an embodiment, the pinA may be a standard hinge pin or the like. In another embodiment, the pinA may be configured to maintain the latchdisposed through the first set of aperturessuch that the bracket assemblyremains in the assembled position. For example, the pinA may be a detent pin or a clevis pin. In another embodiment, the pinA may include a threaded portion for attachment of a nut to maintain the latchdisposed through the first set of apertures.

The latchmay also include a handleB for rotating the latchabout the longitudinal axis of the pinA. The handleB may be a lever or knob extending from the pinA. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the latchmay be L-shaped, wherein the handleB extends peripherally and perpendicularly outward from one end of the pinA. In another embodiment, the latchmay be U-shaped, wherein the latchbends back on itself such that the pinA and the handleB are disposed in parallel relation to one another and spaced a fixed distance from one another. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the latchis not limited to the disclosed shapes and may be any shape that can provide the same utility. Like the pinA, the handleB may be cylindrical. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the handleB is not limited to a cylindrical shape and may be any shape with the same utility.

The bodyand the latchmay be formed from one or more of any suitable rigid materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, ceramic materials, composite materials, and the like. Other materials that provide the same utility are within the scope of the claims. Moreover, the components of the bodyand the latchmay be made by any suitable process, including but not limited to casting, molding, forming, forging, machining, and the like.

The dimensions of support structures often vary. Additionally, structures like boat docks and residential decks are exposed to environmental conditions such as rain and snow. Furthermore, a user may want to couple a heavy accessory to the support structure. It may therefore be desirable to tighten the bracket assemblyto the exact dimensions of the support structure to ensure a secure fit. To this end, the latchmay also include a tightening means for tightly securing the bracket assemblyto a support member. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the tightening means may include a protrusionat least partially surrounding the circumference of the pinA and configured to provide force and friction against the support structure. The protrusionmay be sized and positioned to engage the first set of aperturesA,B during assembly such that the latchmay be inserted through the first set of aperturesA,B. The protrusionmay also be sized and positioned not to engage the first set of aperturesA,B after assembly is complete. That is, the protrusionmay be configured to avoid obstructing rotation of the pinA within the first set of aperturesA,B. The orientation of the protrusionmay be altered by pivoting the handleB of latch.

The tightening means may also include a plurality of gasketsfixed to the inner surface of the bodyto provide sealing friction against the support structure. The gasketsmay be disposed one on or more of the first wallA, second wallB, and side wallC. The gasketsmay be sized and shaped to correspond to the size and shape of the wallsA,B,C. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the bracket assemblymay include rectangular gasketsfixed to the inner surface of the first wallA, second wallB (not shown), and side wallC. The gasketsmay also be sized and positioned to avoid obstructing the plurality of apertures,disposed through the body. The plurality of gasketsmay be positioned adjacent to one another, either spaced apart or in contact with one another. In an embodiment, the plurality of gasketscan include separate gasketsattached or fitted together. In another embodiment, the plurality of gasketsmay be molded into a single unitary component. In an embodiment, the surface of the gasketsmay be smooth. In another embodiment, the gasketsmay be ribbed to increase friction and facilitate sealing. The gasketsmay be formed of typical materials used for gaskets, such as polyurethane foam, urethane, rubber, silicone, and any other typical gasket material. The tightening means depicted in the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated inis discussed in greater detail with reference to. In an alternative embodiment, the tightening means may be in the form of other manually activatable and deactivatable tightening devices known in the prior art.

To prevent the tightening means from being inadvertently deactivated, it may be desirable to lock the bracket assemblyin the assembled, secured configuration, discussed in greater detail below. To this end, the latchmay also include a handle aperturedisposed transversely through the body of the handleB to allow a pin to be used to lock the handleB in a desired orientation. The handle aperturemay be sized and positioned to align with one of the second set of aperturesA,B disposed through the bodywhen the handleB is in a desired orientation. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the handle aperturemay align with the third apertureA when the handleB is pivoted to the upright position. A second pin (not shown) may be inserted through both the handle apertureand the third apertureA to maintain the handleB in the upright position, thereby preventing the tightening means from being inadvertently deactivated and maintaining the bracket assemblyin the assembled, secured position. The second pin (not shown) may be a standard dowel pin, a locking pin, or the like.

To assemble the bracket assembly, discussed in more detail below, the latchmay be inserted through either of the first set of aperturesA,B. The latchmay be inserted through the first set of aperturesA,B from either side of the bodysuch that the handleB of the latchmay be positioned on either side of the bracket assembly. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the pinA of the latchmay first be inserted through the first apertureA and then through the second apertureB such that the handleB is positioned proximate to the first wallA. Alternatively, the pinA may be inserted first through the second apertureB and then through the first apertureA such that the handleB is positioned proximate to the second wallB. This alternative configuration may be appreciated with reference to, discussed below.

The bracket assemblymay also include one or more attachment interfaces for coupling accessories to the bracket assemblyand thereby coupling accessories to a support structure. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the attachment interface may be a support shaft. In an embodiment, the support shaftsmay be permanently affixed to the body. That is, the support shaftsand the bodymay be integrally formed as a unitary component. In another embodiment, the support shaftsmay be removably coupled to the bodyby any appropriate means. As a non-limiting example, the support shaftmay include a threaded rod (not shown) sized and positioned to engage a threaded aperture (not shown) disposed through the body. The support shaftmay be constructed from any appropriate rigid material, including but not limited to plastic, metal, ceramic materials, composite materials, and the like. Other materials that provide the same utility are within the scope of the claims. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the support shaftmay be constructed from rigid rectangular tubing such that the bracket assemblymay be coupled to an accessory by inserting the support shaftinto larger rectangular tubing or a rectangular aperture of the accessory. The support shaftmay also be coupled to an accessory by receiving rectangular tubing of the accessory. In another embodiment, the support shaftmay be tubing of another shape, including but not limited to cylindrical tubing. Alternatively, the support shaftmay be a solid bar or rod. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, a support shaftmay perpendicularly extend from the second wallB. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the support shaftmay extend from the bodyat a variety of angles. In an alternative embodiment, support shaftsmay extend from one or more of the first wallA, second wallB, and side wallC.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblydesigned and constructed in accordance with the disclosed principles. As depicted in the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the pinA of the latchmay be inserted such that the handleB of the latchis positioned proximate to the second wallB. That is, the pinA of the latchmay first be inserted through the second apertureB and may then be inserted through the first apertureA. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the handle aperturemay align with the fourth apertureB when the handleB is pivoted to the downward position. A second pin (not shown) may be inserted through the handle apertureand the fourth apertureB to maintain the handleB in the downward position, thereby preventing the tightening means from being inadvertently deactivated and maintaining the bracket assemblyin the assembled, secured position.

Referring toand, illustrated are isometric side views of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblydesigned and constructed in accordance with the disclosed principles. As previously discussed, the bracket assemblymay include a plurality of gasketsfixed to the inner surface of the body. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiments illustrated inand, the gasketsmay be sized and positioned to avoid obstructing the apertures,disposed through the body. As previously discussed, the bracket assemblymay also include a protrusionthat at least partially surrounds the circumference of the pinA. The protrusionmay be sized and positioned to engage the first set of aperturesA,B during assembly such that the pinA of the latchmay be received by the first set of aperturesA,B. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated inand, the protrusionmay be oriented toward the bottom of the bracket assemblysuch that the protrusionis aligned with the first set of aperturesA,B and oriented away from the channel. The position of the protrusionmay be altered by pivoting the handleB, which is discussed in greater detail with reference to.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblydesigned and constructed in accordance with the disclosed principles. As previously discussed, one or more of wallsA,B,C may include flangesto facilitate sliding of the bracket assemblyalong a support structure. In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in, the side wallC may include planar flangesextending from the top and bottom edges of the side wall. The flangesmay have a greater width than the side wallC and may include an angled edge. In an embodiment, one or more of the first wallA and second wallB may additionally or alternatively include one or more flangesextending from their respective top and/or bottom edges.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric front view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblydesigned and constructed in accordance with the disclosed principles. As previously discussed, the bracket assemblymay include a plurality of gasketsdisposed on the inner surface of the body. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the gasketsmay be disposed on the inner surface of the first wallA, second wallB, and side wallC. The gasketsmay be sized to cover only a portion of the wallA,B,C upon which they are disposed and may be strategically positioned to promote secure sealing between the bracket assemblyand the support structure. In an alternative embodiment, the gasketsmay be sized to cover the entire surface of one or more of the wallsA,B,C, while still avoiding obstruction of the apertures,disposed through the bodyas previously mentioned. Additionally, the side wallC may include planar flangesextending from the top and bottom edges of the side wall, wherein the flangesmay have a greater width than the side wallC and may include an angled edge.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric top view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblydesigned and constructed in accordance with the disclosed principles. As previously discussed, a plurality of gasketsmay be fixed to the inner surface of the body. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, gasketsmay be disposed on the inner surface of the first wallA, second wallB, and side wallC and may be positioned adjacent to and in contact with one another. Additionally, flangesextending from the top and bottom surface of the side wallC may have a greater width than the side wallC such that the flangesextend beyond the first wallA and second wallB.

Referring toillustrated is an isometric bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblydesigned and constructed in accordance with the disclosed principles. As previously discussed, the bracket assemblymay include a tightening means comprising a protrusionthat at least partially surrounds the circumference of the pinA and a plurality of gasketsfixed to the inner surface of the body. When the bracket assemblyis in the assembled, unsecured configuration, which is discussed in greater detail with reference tothat follows, the protrusionmay be oriented away from the channel defined by the body. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the protrusionmay be oriented away from the channel and toward the bottom of the bracket assembly. The position of the protrusionmay be altered by pivoting the handleB. The bracket assemblymay also include rectangular gasketsfixed to the inner surface of the first wallA, second wallB, and side wallC to frictionally seal the bracket assemblyto a support structure. The tightening means is discussed in greater detail with reference to.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblyin a partially disassembled configuration. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the latchmay be uncoupled from the body. As previously discussed, the bodymay define a generally c-shaped open channel for engaging a support structure. With the latchseparated from the bracket assembly, the bodymay closely engage a support structure. The plurality of apertures,may be positioned such that they are not obstructed by the support structurewhen the bodyengages the support structure. The plurality gasketsmay be disposed on the inner surface of the bodysuch that the gasketsmay contact one or more surfaces of the support structure. In the partially disassembled configuration, the bodymay be slid along the support structureuntil the desired position is achieved.

To assemble the bracket assembly, the user may couple the first wallA of the bodyto the second wallB of the bodyusing the latch. With the latchoriented such that the pinA and protrusionare aligned with the first set of apertures, the latchmay be moved in the direction of arrowsuch that the pinA and protrusionmay engage the first set of apertures. During assembly, the protrusionmay be oriented away from the support. In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in, the protrusionmay be oriented toward the bottom of the bracket assemblyand the handleB may be horizontally oriented during assembly. It will be understood that the illustrated orientations of the protrusionand handleB are non-limiting, and other orientations are within the scope of the claims. The latchmay be moved in the direction of arrowuntil the handleB contacts the body.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblyin an assembled, unsecured configuration. In the assembled, unsecured configuration, the pinA of the latchmay engage the first set of apertures. In the assembled, unsecured configuration, the latchmay be oriented such that the pinA and protrusionare aligned with the first set of apertures, and the protrusionmay be oriented away from the support. In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in, the protrusionmay initially be oriented toward the bottom of the bracket assemblyand the handleB may be horizontally oriented when the bracket assemblyis in the assembled, unsecured configuration. After assembly, the handleB may be pivoted such that the pinA and the attached protrusionare rotated about the longitudinal axis of the pinA. The protrusionand the handleB may thereby be moved to a number of orientations when the bracket assemblyis in the assembled, unsecured configuration. In the assembled, unsecured configuration, the bracket assemblymay be loosely coupled to the support structuresuch that the bracket assemblymay be slid along the support structureuntil the desired position is achieved. To secure the bracket assemblyto the support structure, the handleB may be pivoted such that the protrusionis rotated about the longitudinal axis of the pinA toward the support structure.

Referring toillustrated is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblyin an assembled, secured configuration. In the assembled, secured configuration, the protrusionof the latchmay be oriented toward the support structuresuch that the effective cross-sectional area of the channel is reduced. The protrusionmay be pressed against the surface of the support structuresuch that a clamping force is applied to the support structure. The clamping force may cause the gasketsto be tightly pressed against one or more surfaces of the support structureto provide sealing friction against the support structure. Together, the latchand the gasketsmay secure the bracket assemblyto the support structurein a desired position. In the assembled, secured configuration, the handle aperturemay be aligned with one of the second set of aperturessuch that the latchmay be locked in position using a second pin (not shown). In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the handleB may be in an upright orientation when the bracket assemblyis in the assembled, secured configuration such that the handle aperturealigns with the third apertureA. As previously mentioned, the pinA of the latchmay alternatively be inserted through the first set of aperturesfrom the opposite direction such that the pinA first engages the second apertureB and then engages the first apertureA. In that configuration, the handleB may be in a downward orientation such that the handle aperturealigns with the fourth apertureB when the bracket assemblyis in the assembled, secured configuration. In the assembled, secured configuration, the bracket assemblymay be coupled to an accessory, which is described in greater detail with reference tothat follow.

It may be desirable to return the bracket assemblyto the assembled, unsecured configuration to adjust the position of the bracket assemblyalong the support structure. To return the bracket assemblyto the assembled, unsecured configuration, the second pin (not shown) may be removed from the handle apertureand the aperture from the second set of apertures. The handleB may then be pivoted such that the protrusionis rotated about the longitudinal axis of the pinA away from the support structure. When the bracket assemblyis returned to the assembled, unsecured configuration, the bracket assemblymay be loosely coupled to the support structuresuch that the bracket assemblymay be slid along the support structureuntil the desired position is achieved.

It may also be desirable to return the bracket assemblyto the partially disassembled configuration to uncouple the bracket assemblyfrom the support structure. To return the bracket assemblyto the partially disassembled configuration, the handleB may be pivoted such that the protrusion is rotated about the longitudinal axis of the pinA until the protrusionis aligned with the first set of apertures. The latchmay then be moved in the direction opposite of arrowillustrated insuch that the pinA and protrusionmay be disengaged from the first set of apertures, thereby separating the latchfrom the body. In the partially disassembled configuration, the bodymay be disengaged from the support structure. The bracket assemblymay be reassembled in a different location on the same support structureor coupled to a different support structure.

Whileillustrate the bracket assemblycoupled to a vertical support structure, it will be understood that the bracket assemblymay be coupled to differently oriented support structures. For example, the bracket assemblymay be coupled to a horizontal support structuresuch as a railing or beam, or a diagonal support structuresuch as a brace.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblyin accordance with the present disclosure. As previously discussed, the bracket assemblymay be used to securely and removably couple accessories to a support structure of a boat dock or residential deck. Additionally, two or more bracket assembliesmay be used together to support an accessory from multiple sides. In the assembled, secured configuration, the bracket assemblycan support accessories across a wide range of weights and configurations. The bracket assemblymay be coupled to an accessory via the support shaft. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, two or more bracket assembliesmay be used to support a platformextending between two or more support structuresof a boat dock. In an embodiment, each end of the platformmay be disposed on a support shaft. In an alternative embodiment, the support shaftsmay be inserted into hollow slots formed through the platform. The platformmay thereby be extended between two support structurespositioned on opposite sides of the dock, allowing a user to create a walkway over the water. In the assembled, secured configuration, the bracket assemblycan support the weight of the platform, as well as the weight of various items or persons on the platform, while maintaining the position of the bracket assemblyalong the support structure.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblyin accordance with the present disclosure. As previously discussed, the bracket assemblymay be used to secure accessories to a support structurewhen the bracket assemblyin the assembled, secured configuration. As a non-limiting example, the bracket assemblymay be used to couple a tableto the support structuresof a boat dock. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the support shaftof each bracket assemblymay be inserted into the hollow tubing of the table. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the support shaftmay be coupled to other accessories, including but not limited to chairs, storage units, light fixtures, shelving, and the like.

Referring to, illustrated is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket assemblyin accordance with the present disclosure. As previously mentioned, the bracket assemblymay include a support shaft for coupling accessories to the bracket assembly, thereby coupling accessories to a support structure. In another embodiment, the bracket assemblymay not include a support shaft and may instead include other attachment interfaces. In another embodiment, the bracket assemblymay include a support shaft that is removably attached to the body. With the support shaft uncoupled from the bracket assembly, other attachment interfaces may be coupled to the bracket assemblyin place of the support shaft. In the non-limiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in, the bracket assemblymay include an eye hookfor hanging accessories such as a net or a canopy. Like the support shaft, the eye hookmay be permanently affixed to the bodyor removably coupled to the bodyby, for example, a corresponding threaded rod and aperture. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the bracket assemblymay include other support or attachment features not listed here and that other support or attachment features are within the scope of the claims.

While this disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the pertinent field of art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed principles. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend the disclosed principles to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto, as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Also, while various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosed herein have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with any claims and their equivalents issuing from this disclosure. Furthermore, the above advantages and features are provided in described embodiments, but shall not limit the application of such issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above advantages.

Additionally, the section headings herein are provided for consistency with the suggestions under 37 C.F.R. 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings shall not limit or characterize the disclosed principles set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically, and by way of example, although the headings refer to a “Technical Field,” the claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called field. Further, a description of a technology as background information is not to be construed as an admission that certain technology is prior art to any embodiment(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary” to be considered as a characterization of the embodiment(s) set forth in issued claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to “invention” or disclosed principles in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Multiple embodiments may be set forth according to the limitations of the multiple claims issuing from this disclosure, and such claims accordingly define the embodiment(s), and their equivalents, that are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of such claims shall be considered on their own merits in light of this disclosure, but should not be constrained by the headings set forth herein.

Moreover, the Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), requiring an abstract that will allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

Any and all publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this disclosure are herein incorporated by reference as if each were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and set forth in its entirety herein.